Cheltenham: Supreme Novices Hurdle and Arkle Trophy

The meeting kicks off with two Grade One events, both classics in themselves, the Supreme Novices Hurdle at 14.30 CET and the Arkle Trophy, a novice steeplechase over 2 miles at 15.05. The Irish have a good record in the Supreme Novices and their strong challenge today is headed by Willie Mullins´ pair Cousin Vinny, ridden as always by his son Patrick, and Kempes (Ruby Walsh). Cousin Vinny won the bumpert here a year ago and has done little wrong since - until falling at the last hurdle last time out. He is reported not to have travelled well, but is still the likely favourite and the one to beat. However we prefer Kempes, who was smart on the flat and has the more experienced jockey. The consistent Go Native (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry) is another irjush runner with chances, while Torpichen (David Pipe/ Andrew McNamara), a easy winner of both his starts, looks best of the British. The unbeaten Aachen (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas) and Red Moloney (Howatd Johson/ Denis O´Regan ) are meeting tougher opposition now, but must be respected, as is Ainama (Nicky Hemderson/ ZTony McCoy). For a complete longshot, we suggest Alazari (Terry Mills/ Jamie Moore), a group hprse on the flat but unplaced on his only start over the sticks. The Arkle, named after the best chaser of al time, seems to ler between Tatenen (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh), who must atone for his disappointing defeat by Follow the Flag (Oliver McKiernan/ John Cullen) at Christmas, Calgary Bay (Henrietta Knight/ Tony McCoy), impressive here at New Year bur now running over a much shorter trip, and French hope Original (M Rolland/ James Davies), while Tartak (Tom George/ Paddy Brennan) is also in the mix after his latest easy win.